dbx DriveRack Studio Owner's manual

Brand: dbx

Model: DriveRack Studio

Category: Soundbar speakers

Type: Owner's manual

User Manual

Studio Monitor Management System

Studio

WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS:

KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS

HEED ALL W

ARNINGS

FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS

DO NOT USE THIS APPARATUS NEAR WATER

CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.

DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANU-

FACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.

DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT REGISTERS, STOVES, OR

OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING AMPLIFIERS) THAT PRODUCE HEAT.

ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER.

UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS OF

TIME.

Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has

two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third

grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided

plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience

receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

Use only with the cart stand, tripod bracket, or table specified by the manufacture, or sold with

the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination

to avoid injury from tip-over.

Refer all servicing to to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the appara-

tus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has

been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain

or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

POWER ON/OFF SWITCH: For products provided with a power switch, the power switch DOES

NOT break the connection from the mains.

MAINS DISCONNECT: The plug shall remain readily operable. For rack-mount or installation

where plug is not accessible, an all-pole mains switch with a contact separation of at least 3

mm in each pole shall be incorporated into the electrical installation of the rack or building.

FOR UNITS EQUIPPED WITH EXTERNALLY ACCESSIBLE FUSE RECEPTACLE: Replace fuse with same

type and rating only.

MULTIPLE-INPUT VOLTAGE: This equipment may require the use of a different line cord, attach-

ment plug, or both, depending on the available power source at installation. Connect this equip-

ment only to the power source indicated on the equipment rear panel. To reduce the risk of fire

or electric shock, refer servicing to qualified service personnel or equivalent.

This Equipment is intended for rack mount use only.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

NOTICE FOR CUSTOMERS IF YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER CORD.

WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.

The cores in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

GREEN and YELLOW - Earth BLUE - Neutral BROWN - Live

As colours of the cores in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings

identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

• The core which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug

marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol, or coloured green, or green and yellow.

• The core which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal marked N or coloured black.

• The core which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal marked L or coloured red.

This equipment may require the use of a different line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending on the

available power source at installation. If the attachment plug needs to be changed, refer servicing to qual-

ified service personnel who should refer to the table below. The green/yellow wire shall be connected

directly to the units chassis.

WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in the unit or in the system to which it is con-

nected can result in full line voltage between chassis and earth ground. Severe injury or death can then

result if the chassis and earth ground are touched simultaneously.

LIVE

NEUTRAL

EARTH GND

CONDUCTOR

BROWN

BLUE

GREEN/YEL

BLACK

Normal Alt

WIRE COLOR

WHITE

GREEN

The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that warn of potential hazards with

electrical products. The lightning flash with arrowpoint in an equilateral triangle means that there

are dangerous voltages present within the unit. The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indi-

cates that it is necessary for the user to refer to the owner’s manual.

These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the unit.

Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the

chassis for any reason will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is

spilled on the unit, shut it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect the unit dur-

ing storms to prevent damage.

CAUTION

ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC

SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

U.K. MAINS PLUG WARNING

A molded mains plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe.

Discard the mains plug at a suitable disposal facility. NEVER UNDER

ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT

MAINS PLUG INTO A 13 AMP POWER SOCKET. Do not use the

mains plug without the fuse cover in place. Replacement fuse covers

can be obtained from your local retailer. Replacement fuses are 13

amps and MUST be ASTA approved

to BS1362.

LITHIUM BATTERY

WARNING

CAUTION!

This product may contain a lithium battery.There is danger of

explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only

with an Eveready CR 2032 or equivalent. Make sure the bat-

tery is installed with the correct polarity. Discard used batter-

ies according to manufacturer’s instructions.

ADVARSEL!

Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosjonsfare.Ved utskifting benyttes kun

batteri som anbefalt av apparatfabrikanten. Brukt batteri

returneres apparatleverandøren.

ADVARSEL!

Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering.

Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri av samme fabrikat og

type. Levér det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren.

VAROITUS!

Paristo voi räjähtää, jos se on virheellisesti asennettu.Vaihda

paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppin.

Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.

VARNING!

Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte.Använd samma batteri-

typ eller en ekvivalent typ som rekommenderas av apparattil-

lverkaren. Kassera använt batteri enligt fabrikantens instruk-

tion.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

ELECTROMAGNETIC

COMPATIBILITY

This unit conforms to the Product

Specifications noted on the Declaration of

Conformity. Operation is subject to the fol-

lowing two conditions:

• this device may not cause harmful inter-

ference, and

• this device must accept any interference

received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation.

Operation of this unit within significant electro-

magnetic fields should be avoided.

• use only shielded interconnecting cables.

DECLARATION OF

CONFORMITY

Manufacturer’s Name: dbx Professional Products

Manufacturer’s Address: 8760 S. Sandy Parkway

Sandy, Utah 84070, USA

declares that the product:

Product name: dbx DriveRack Studio

Note: Product name may be suffixed by

the letters-EU.

Product option: None

conforms to the following Product Specifications:

Safety: IEC 60065 (1998)

EMC: EN 55013 (1990)

EN 55020 (1991)

Supplementary Information:

The product herewith complies with the requirements of the

Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC Directive

89/336/EEC as amended by Directive 93/68/EEC.

Vice-President of Engineering

8760 S. Sandy Parkway

Sandy, Utah 84070, USA

Date: June 16, 2003

European Contact: Your local dbx Sales and Service Office or

Harman Music Group

8760 South Sandy Parkway

Sandy, Utah

84070 USA

Ph: (801) 566-8800

Fax: (801) 568-7583

Ta b le of Contents

DriveRack

Studio

Introduction

0.1 Defining the DriveRack Studio ......................ii

0.2 Service Contact Info........................................iii

0.3 Warranty...........................................................iv

Section 1 - Getting Started

1.1 Rear Panel ......................................................2

1.2 Front Panel .....................................................2

1.3 Quick Start .....................................................3

Section 2 - Editing Functions

2.1 Basic Navigation Modes.................................12

2.2 Button Array Overview..................................12

2.3 Navigating the EQ Section (GEQ/PEQ)........14

2.4 Navigating the Subharmonic Synthesizer Section....14

2.5 Navigating the Crossover Section..................14

2.6 Navigating the Feedback Suppression Section ..15

2.7 Navigating the Comp/Limiter Section ...........15

2.8 Navigating the Speaker Alignment Delay

Section..................................................................15

2.9 Navigating the Utility Section ........................16

2.10 Navigating the Wizard Section ....................16

Section 3 - Operating the

DriveRack Studio

3.1 Program Definition.........................................18

3.2 Navigating Factory Programs.........................18

3.3 Editing Factory Programs...............................18

Section 4 - Detailed Parameters

4.1 Pre-Crossover Graphic EQ.............................22

4.2 Advanced Feedback Suppressor ...................22

4.3 Subharmonic Synthesizer...............................23

4.4 Crossover ........................................................24

4.5 Post-Crossover Parametric EQ.......................25

4.6 Compressor/Limiter ........................................25

4.7 Speaker Alignment Delay .............................27

Section 5 - Application Guide

5.1 2X4 Crossover.................................................30

5.2 Monitor Matrix Switcher.................................31

5.3 DriveRack Studio as a Studio Effects Unit....32

Appendix

A.1 Factory Reset .................................................34

A.2 Quick Key Options........................................34

A.3 Specifications..................................................35

A.4 Auto EQ Optimization Tips ..........................36

A.5 Crossover Diagrams.......................................36

A.6 Block Diagram ...............................................37

A.7 Prog List..........................................................38

DriveRack User Manual

Table of Contents

INTRO

CUSTOMER SERVICE INFO

Defining the DriveRack

WARRANTY INFO

INTRODUCTION

DriveRack

Studio

Introduction

DriveRack Studio User Manual

DriveRack

Studio

Drive your Studio to a whole new level of performance with the DriveRack

Studio Complete

Equalization & Loudspeaker Control System. The DriveRack Studio from dbx Professional

Products represents a complete integration of the key elements that help ensure optimal loud-

speaker system management in Studio-specific applications.

While the DriveRack was originally designed as an equalization and loudspeaker control sys-

tem for PA applications, we found that it can also provide a host of essential functions in home,

project and professional studio applications. In addition to the obvious equalization and com-

pression functionality, the DriveRack Studio can help you tune your room, switch between up

to three pairs of studio monitors, and (if you don’t have the luxury of multiple pairs of moni-

tors) provide you with several different “Studio Monitor Emulation” templates. These templates

allow you to hear your mixes as you would through everything from a small 5” speaker though

traditional midfield monitors and beyond!

The dbx DriveRack Studio is the most effective way to manage all aspects of Loudspeaker man-

agement for Studio applications. The DriveRack Studio essentially becomes the only device that

you will need for optimizing the playback monitoring in any studio. The following are just

some of the features of the DriveRack Studio.

DriveRack Studio features:

• Dual 28-band Graphic EQ

• Classic dbx

Compressor

• 120A Sub-harmonic Synthesizer

• 2x3, 2x4, 2x5, 2x6 Crossover Configurations

• Stereo Multi-band Parametric EQ

• Stereo Output Limiters

• Pink Noise Generator

• Auto-EQ with 28-Band RTA

• JBL

Speaker and Crown

Power Amp Tunings with Setup Wizard

• 24 User Programs / 24 Factory Programs

• 2 Channel XLR Input and 6 Channel XLR Output

• Front panel RTA-M XLR input with phantom power

• 24-Bit ADC/24-Bit DAC, >110 dB Dynamic Range

• TypeIV

Conversion System

• Full Graphic LCD Display

0.1 Defining the DriveRack Studio

INTRODUCTION

Introduction

DriveRack

Studio

DriveRack Studio User Manual

A Note About the DriveRack Studio:

Professional studio designers go to great lengths to design control room spaces that are as

acoustically perfect as possible. However, acoustic perfection is virtually impossible to

achieve, so even in multi-million dollar recording facilities, it’s not uncommon to use a com-

bination of analysis and EQ to “tune” the control room, in an effort to correct (or at least

minimize) the imperfections in frequency reproduction inherent in most acoustic spaces, as

well as the frequency response characteristics of a given pair of studio monitors.

The DriveRack Studio has all the tools you need to allow you to tune your own room, creating

a listening environment with a near flat frequency response regardless of its fundamental sonic

imperfections.

By using the DriveRack Studio’s built-in RTA (Real Time Analyzer) system, you can quickly and

easily find what frequencies are being boosted or attenuated naturally by your listening envi-

ronment and monitors. The DriveRack Studio will then automatically adjust its own EQ settings

to ‘tune’ or equalize those frequencies to compensate.

See the section titled, “Auto EQ WIZARD” on page 5 of the DriveRack manual for details on

how to connect a mic to the front panel and begin the process of tuning your room.

Studio Output/Monitor Management

The DriveRack Studio allows the user to send program material to any of three programmable

stereo outputs. These outputs can be connected to different sets of studio monitors, to a record-

ing device, to an amplifier, to a headphone system, or any combination of the above. You may

select any one output or a combination of all three at once. The volume for each individual out-

put pair is programmable via the crossover selection switch on the front panel of the DriveRack

Studio. The ‘High’ crossover settings control Monitor 1 outputs; the ‘Mid’ settings control

Monitor 2 outputs; and the ‘Low’ crossover settings control the Monitor 3 outputs.

This allows you to send signal to a pair of studio monitors at one level while sending signal to

your recording device at a different level at the same time. Or you may choose to control two

or three sets of monitors; you may choose which set to listen to and balance each one’s vol-

ume according to taste.

Note that all of the DriveRack Studio presets process only the output signal sent to the “Monitor

1” output pair, while the remaining output pairs receive unprocessed signal at their outputs.

Therefore, if you wish to use the DriveRack Studio presets as an “effect” that you would print

to a recording device, be sure to connect the output of Monitor 1 to the recording device.

Likewise, to process only the signal fed to a pair of studio monitors, be sure to connect those

monitors to the “Monitor 1” output pair.

Studio Monitor Emulation

Every different type of studio monitoring system, from the smallest 5” cube style speaker to

the biggest 18” far field monitor, has a particular sonic characteristic due their enclosure

design, materials, woofer size, tweeter design, amplification system, crossover network, etc.

The same is true in the “real world” - your mix will ultimately be played in a variety of envi-

ronments on many different kinds of systems. In order to ensure that your mix translates

effectively no matter what the playback system, you would ideally utilize a number of differ-

ent sets of monitors throughout the mixing process.

iii

Introduction

DriveRack Studio User Manual

DriveRack

Studio

In order to address this issue, most world-class recording studios have several different moni-

toring systems to switch between to check their mixes. In many cases, you’ll see everything

those large 18” far field monitoring systems to the more common near-field ‘bookshelf’ style

system to a small set of 5” cube speakers.

Rather than spending thousands on multiple sets of monitors, the DriveRack Studio allows

you to emulate the sound of various environments and popular monitoring systems. Using

the standard nearfield configurations used in most pro and project studios, the DriveRack

Studio recreates the performance of a number of larger and smaller monitoring systems, pro-

viding you with a much better picture of how your mix will sound in a variety of playback

situations.

The DriveRack Studio has 24 internal presets that are designed to help your monitors imitate

what your mix would sound like on other popular monitoring systems and environments.

Each of these presets can be changed to suit your individual needs and taste and then the

changes can be saved in one of the 25 RAM presets.

We have based our presets on three sets of popular ‘source’ monitors. Choose the presets that

best fit the style of monitor you have in your studio:

Act8 – Presets that are designed to work with active bi-amplified, sealed nearfield monitors

with 8” drivers, such as Mackie HR824™ and ADAM P11A.

Act6 - Presets that are designed to work with active or passive nearfield monitors with 5.25”

to 6.5” drivers, such as JBL LSR25P, Tannoy Reveal™ and Reveal Active.

Port – Presets that are designed to work with active or passive ported nearfield monitors

with 8” drivers. Such as JBL LSR28P, Genelec 1030A, Event 20/20™ and 20/20BAS

monitors.

The DriveRack Studio digitally adapts the signal being output to your monitors using a combi-

nation of Parametric EQ, Graphic EQ, Compression, Limiting, Crossover filtering, Volume, and

Subharmonic Synthesis to authentically reproduce the experience of listening to your material

through various monitoring devices including the phone, TV, FM stereo, bookshelf speakers,

large systems, boom boxes and more

If you require technical support, contact dbx Customer Service. Be prepared to accurately describe

the problem. Know the serial number of your unit - this is printed on a sticker attached to the top

panel. If you have not already taken the time to fill out your warranty registration card and send

it in, please do so now.

Before you return a product to the factory for service, we recommend you refer to the manual.

Make sure you have correctly followed installation steps and operation procedures. If you are still

unable to solve a problem, contact our Customer Service Department at (801) 568-7660 for con-

sultation. If you need to return a product to the factory for service, you MUST contact Customer

Service to obtain a Return Authorization Number.

No returned products will be accepted at the factory without a Return Authorization Number.

Please refer to the Warranty information on the following page, which extends to the first end-

user. After expiration of the warranty, a reasonable charge will be made for parts, labor, and pack-

ing if you choose to use the factory service facility. In all cases, you are responsible for trans-

portation charges to the factory. dbx will pay return shipping if the unit is still under warranty.

Use the original packing material if it is available. Mark the package with the name of the shipper

and with these words in red: DELICATE INSTRUMENT, FRAGILE! Insure the package properly.

Ship prepaid, not collect. Do not ship parcel post.

0.2 Service Contact Info

Introduction

DriveRack

Studio

Introduction

DriveRack

Studio

This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the United States.

1. The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed within 30 days

after purchase date to validate this warranty. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the burden

of the consumer.

2. dbx warrants this product, when bought and used solely within the U.S., to be free from defects

in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.

3. dbx liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or, at our discretion, replacing defective

materials that show evidence of defect, provided the product is returned to dbx WITH RETURN

AUTHORIZATION from the factory, where all parts and labor will be covered up to a period of

two years. A Return Authorization number must be obtained from dbx by telephone. The com-

pany shall not be liable for any consequential damage as a result of the product's use in any

circuit or assembly.

4. dbx reserves the right to make changes in design or make additions to or improvements upon

this product without incurring any obligation to install the same additions or improvements on

products previously manufactured.

5. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and dbx neither assumes

nor authorizes any person to assume on its behalf any obligation or liability in connection with

the sale of this product. In no event shall dbx or its dealers be liable for special or consequen-

tial damages or from any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their

control.

0.3 Warranty

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

Getting Started

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

IEC Power Cord Receptacle

The DriveRack Studio comes with a power supply that will accept voltages ranging from 100V-

120V at frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz. An IEC cord is included. EU version accepts 220V-240V

at frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz.

Outputs 1-6

The output section of the DriveRack Studio offers six electronically balanced XLR connectors.

Inputs 1-2

The input section of the DriveRack Studio offers two electronically balanced XLR connectors.

+4dBu/-10dBv Switch

This switch changes the level from either +4dBu or -10dBv.

Ground Lift Switch

The ground lift switch lifts the pin 1 chassis ground of both input XLR connectors.

RTA Input Jack

This balanced XLR input is used for the connection of an RTA microphone, which allows the

user to “Pink” and optimize the EQ settings of any room through the use of the Auto EQ in the

Wizard setup assistant.

RTA MIC Input Selector

Pressing the RTA MIC input button will engage the front panel RTA input XLR connector.

Data Wheel

The Data wheel of the DriveRack Studio is used to scroll through the program menu, load pro-

grams, select parameters and edit parameter values.

CROSSOVER/ALIGNMENT DELAY/GRAPHIC EQ/PARAMETRIC EQ/AUTO/EQ

1.2 Front Panel

1.1 Rear Panel Connections

LCD Display

The backlit LCD display of the DriveRack Studio provides the user with all of the vital pro-

cessing information of the DriveRack Studio including: signal routing, effect block editing and

Wizard Setup functions. The display will also notify the user if any internal clipping is taking

place within the unit. The following message will appear: CLIP.

Function Buttons

The function buttons of the DriveRack Studio allow direct access to all editing and navigating

functions of the DriveRack Studio. The functions of the aforementioned buttons are as follows:

<PREV PG> - is used to navigate back through the various pages of any module block.

<NEXT PG> - is used to navigate forward through the various pages of any module block.

<EQ> - is used to move to the EQ modules. Successive presses will move you through the

EQ modules in the input section and through EQ modules located in the output section.

<SUBHARMONIC> - This button is used to move to the Subharmonic Synthesizer module.

<XOVER> - is used to move to the Crossover module.

<FEEDBACK> - is used to move to the feedback elimination module.

<COMP/LIMITER> - is used to move to the Compressor or Limiter modules.

<DELAY> - is used to move to the Delay module.

<PROGRAM> - is used to enter program mode when pressed.

<UTILITY> - is used to access the the Utility menu.

<STORE> - is used to store any program changes.

<WIZARD> - is used to enter the Wizard section which includes: SYSTEM SETUP, AUTO EQ

WIZARD and AFS WIZARD.

Input Meters

The DriveRack Studio provides the user with two independent six segment Lightpipe™ input

meters that range from -30 to +20 dBu. These meters monitor the signal level right after the

input module.

Threshold Meters

The threshold meters indicate that the threshold level has been exceeded within the Limiter sec-

tion, and gain reduction may be taking place within the specific output channel.

Output Meters

The DriveRack Studio provides the user with six independent six-segment Lightpipe™ output

meters that range from -30 to +20 dBu.

Power Switch

The Power Switch turns the DriveRack Studio on and off. Note: dbx Professional Products

strongly recommends that power amplifiers connected to the DriveRack Studio, should be pow-

ered down prior to cycling the power on the DriveRack Studio.

For those of you that wish to jump right in, the following information has been provided to

act as a quick start guide for optimizing performance of the DriveRack Studio.

1.3 Quick Start

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Getting Started

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

Signal Path Block Diagram

The following diagram shows the logical and intuitive signal path of the input, effect mod-

ules, and output of the DriveRack Studio.

Connections

• When setting up the DriveRack Studio, make connections as follows:

• Always make connections prior to applying power to the unit.

• Connect the output from the sending device (mixer) to either of the two XLR

inputs connectors shown below.

• Make output connections from any one of the six output XLR connectors shown

below to the input of the selected mastering recorder, monitor pairs, power amps,

etc.

• If you will be “pinking” the room through the use of the RTA, connect the selected

RTA microphone to the front-panel XLR input, and press the RTA input button.

• IMPORTANT- It is imperative that the power amps /and or active monitors are turned off prior to cycling

power to the DriveRack Studio. Always make sure that these devices are the last item turned on and the first

turned off.

Once all of the connections have been made and the unit is powered up, you can

navigate through the entire signal path of the DriveRack Studio from the front panel

of the unit. The display provides you with a clear and concise overview of each

aspect of the signal path from the input to the output section.

CROSSOVER/ALIGNMENT DELAY/GRAPHIC EQ/PARAMETRIC EQ/AUTO/EQ

GEQ

Meters

Left Input

Right Input

Left High

Right High

Left Mid

Right Mid

Left Low

Right Low

Mic Input

Outputs

Stereo Compressor

AFS Notch Filters

SubHarmonic Synth

3-Band PEQ 2-Band PEQ 2-Band PEQ

Peak Stop Limiter Peak Stop Limiter Peak Stop Limiter

Alignment Delay Alignment Delay Alignment Delay

Crossover Section - (2X3, 4,5,6)

Stereo/Mono

Pink Noise

Micr Pre amp

RTA

Meters

The features of the front panel of the DriveRack Studio are as follows from left to right.

RTA MIC Input- This XLR input is used for the connection of a RTA microphone. The

RTA MIC input button is used to engage the RTA input connector. LCD Display- All

operational information of the DriveRack Studio is displayed here. The display will also

notify the user if any internal clipping is taking place within the unit. The following

message will appear: CLIP. Data Wheel - The data wheel is used to scroll through the

program menu of the DriveRack Studio. The Data Wheel is also used to perform editing

functions to effects and utility menu features. Button Array - Operational editing is

done using this 12 button array. A complete description of each button’s functionality is

listed below. Input meters- These two 6-segment LED meters monitor the input level

of the DriveRack Studio directly after the input mixer. Output meters - These six 6-

segment meters monitor the output levels of the DriveRack Studio directly after the out-

put gain stage. Threshold meters - These six 1-segment meters (when lit) show that

threshold level of the limiters has been exceeded.

DriveRack Studio Wizard

Now that you have made all of your audio connections and have made yourself familiar with

the front-panel navigation of the unit, you can easily optimize your system through the use of

the DriveRack Studio Wizard setup system. This feature of the DriveRack Studio allows for

quick and hyper-accurate venue setups. The menu section of the Wizard offers System setup,

Auto EQ and AFS (Advanced Feedback Suppression). The following will walk you through

your venue setup.

• From program mode, press the <WIZARD> button and the display will appear as

follows:

System Setup

• The arrow will indicate the selected Wizard setup. To select any one of the three

options, rotate the <DATA> wheel. If you are performing the System setup, press

either the <NEXT PG> button or the <DATA> wheel and the display will appear as

follows:

• Simply rotate the <DATA> wheel to select either a Mono or Stereo input configura

Select Input as MONO

or STEREO.

>STEREO

Input Setup

Auto EQ WIZARD

AFS WIZARD

DriveRack PA WIZARD

System Setup

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

tion. Once you have selected your input option, press the <NEXT PG> button and the display

will appear as follows:

• Simply rotate the <DATA> wheel to select either a Dual Mono or Stereo linked 28-band

Graphic EQ. Once you have selected your EQ option, press the <NEXT PG> button and

the display will appear as follows:

• Rotate the <Data> wheel to select any one of the numerous custom-tuned MAIN speaker

options available. If the speaker being used is not specified in the menu, select CUSTOM.

Once you have selected your Main speaker option, press the <NEXT PG> button and the

display will appear as follows:

• Rotate the <Data> wheel to select any one of the numerous custom-tuned SUB speaker

options available. Once you have selected your SUB speaker option, press the <NEXT PG>

button and the display will appear as follows:

• You are now prompted to select a power amp by rotating the <DATA> wheel to select any

one of the numerous custom-tuned Amplifier options available. Note that the top line of the

display will either read High, Mid or Low depending on your selected speaker setup selec-

tions. Once you have selected your Amp tuning option (depending on the amp type), you

will select the specified amplifier sensitivity setting if applicable.

• Rotate the <DATA> wheel to select the amplifier manufacturer’s specified amplifier sensitivity

setting. Once set, press the <NEXT PG> button, and you will now be given the option of

optimizing your amp levels with the DriveRack PA. The page will appear something like this:

Select Sensitivity

Crwn MacroTech 1202

>0.775 Volts

High Amplifier

Select an amplifier

>Crwn MacroTech 1202

High Amplifier

Select Sub PA

>None

Sub Speaker

Select GEQ as Dual

Mono or Stereo

>Dual Mono

Graphic EQ Setup

DriveRack Studio User Manual

• You will now rotate the <DATA> wheel to match the same setting as your amplifier

of choice. Note that based on your amp selection, the DriveRack™ PA will initially

display the recommended setting of that particular amp for obtaining maximum

headroom. This is done to match unity gain from the DriveRack™ PA and your

amplifier. Note that if Sub Speakers are included in the speaker selection, you will

be asked if the sub woofer is bridged or mono. For more information regarding

Amplifier gain settings, please refer to the System Setup and Gain Structure information

located in the appendix section.

• Once you have completed your amp level settings, you will press the <NEXT PG>

button, where you will be asked to select a bridged or normal setting fro your low

amp (if used). The display will appear as follows:

• Once have made a bridged or mono selection, press the <NEXT PG> where the

unit will prompt <DATA> wheel to load your new settings. If you do not wish to

load the settings either press the <PROGRAM> button or use the <PREV PG> but-

ton to re-edit your settings, By using your selections, the DriveRack™ will automati-

cally generate a new program and speaker selection which are used to choose the

correct crossover type, parameters, speaker compensation EQ and delay are also

adjusted by the speaker selection. Amplifier parameters are used to set the limiters

to stop amplifier clipping and balance out the crossover levels. You may find that

you want to re-adjust the crossover levels based on your taste and type of music.

Auto EQ WIZARD

• Once you have custom-tailored your system setup, you can now proceed to tune

your listening environment .The Auto EQ Wizard automatically adjusts the response

of the system by producing pink noise and adjusting the Graphic EQ until the RTA

matches a selected response. From the DriveRack Studio Wizard menu, rotate the

<DATA> wheel until the display appears as follows:

• Either press the <NEXT PG> button or rotate the <DATA> wheel and the display will read:

System Setup

AFS WIZARD

DriveRack PA WIZARD

Auto EQ WIZARD

Select

same as your amp

>Normal

Low Amp Bridging

Adjust level

same as your amp

>25

High Amp Level

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

• The display is prompting you to connect an RTA-specific microphone to the front-panel RTA

XLR input, and press the <RTA Input> button. It is recommended that you use the optional

dbx RTA-M microphone. If you wish to bypass the previous steps all together, from program

mode, press the <RTA Input> button, or press the <NEXT PG> button and the display will

appear something like this:

• You can now select any one of the several different Frequency responses for the Auto EQ.

The options are: Flat (0), and Response A-D, and Low, Medium and High Precision. Once

you have selected your desired EQ Frequency response, press the <NEXT PG> button and

the display will appear as follows:

• You will now proceed to “Pink” the room by adjusting the Pink level. The range of bar graph

is -30dBu to +20dBu. Be certain to raise the pink noise level to the level to be used during

the performance. Once the Pink level has been adjusted to the desired volume, press the

<NEXT PG> button and the Auto EQ sequence will begin. The display will either show the

graphic EQ or the RTA. Rotating the <DATA> wheel clockwise and counter clockwise will

toggle between the two modes. You can also select either mode to default to in the Utility

menu. Regardless, the display will appear something like this:

• At this point, the DriveRack Studio will automatically EQ the room. If you are using indepen-

dent left and right graphic EQs, you will auto EQ each side independently. If you are using

a stereo-linked EQ, both sides will be EQ’d simultaneously. Auto EQ can be aborted at any

point in the process by pressing the <NEXT PG> button. Upon completion of the Auto EQ

Wizard, you can return to program mode by releasing the <RTA Input> button and pressing

the <PROGRAM> button.

For more information regarding the Auto EQ section, please refer to the Auto EQ Optimization

Tips information located in the Appendix section.

L R

Auto EQ

Mic Level

Turn Up Level

Pink Level > 18dB

Auto EQ : Pink Noise

RESPONSE C PRECISION LOW

Connect mic to RTA

input. Press RTA

input button.

Auto EQ

DriveRack Studio User Manual

AFS WIZARD

• The DriveRack Studio also offers its exclusive AFS (Advanced Feedback Suppression)

module. This unique feature now makes unwanted feedback in a Studio system a

thing of the past. The AFS Wizard will lead you through the setup of of the fixed fil-

ters of the AFS module. From DriveRack Studio Wizard menu, rotate the <DATA>

wheel until the display appears as follows:

• Press the <NEXT PG> button and the display will read:

• Once the gain level of the mixer has been turned down, press the <NEXT PG> but-

ton and the display will read:

• You will now use the <DATA> wheel to select the number of fixed filters. This will

range from values 0-12. The total number of filters will stay at 12, and the number of

live filters will be = Total Num Filters – Num Fixed. Live and Fixed filter types differ

in that FIXED mode filters are automatically assigned to a frequency creating feedback,

thus remaining at that frequency until cleared by the user. In LIVE mode, live filters

automatically detect and remove feedback frequencies in the presence of audio (music

or speech). When all of the live filters have been used, they begin to round robin.

Essentially this means that the first filter set is replaced where a new feedback is detect-

ed and notched out. This mode is useful because feedback frequencies may change

as the microphone is moved, and/or as the characteristics of the venue change.

The Fixed/Live filter usage will be indicated at the bottom of each page of the feed-

back elimination effect. ‘F’ indicates an available fixed filter, and ‘L’ indicates an avail-

able live filter. A blocked out F or L indicates a filter that is set, or in use. Once the

desired number has been selected, press the <NEXT PG> and the display will read:

Select fixed type

> Speech

AFS

Select Number of

fixed filters. > 6

AFS

F F F F F F L L L L L L

Please turn down the

mixer gain. Press

AFS

NEXT PG when done.

System Setup

Auto EQ WIZARD

DriveRack PA WIZARD

AFS WIZARD

Getting Started

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Getting Started

DriveRack Studio User Manual

Section 1

DriveRack

Studio

• These types pertain to the Q, sensitivity, and algorithm type. The filter is established by using

the formula: Q= Freq divided by Bandwidth. This means that a higher Q will produce a fil-

ter that is more narrow. Values are: Speech (Bandwidth = 1/5 octave and Q=7.25) Music

Low (Narrow notch filter, Bandwidth = 1/10 octave and Q=14.5), Music Medium (Very

Narrow notch filter, Bandwidth = 1/20 octave and Q=29) Music High (Ultra Narrow notch fil-

ter, Bandwidth = 1/80 octave and Q=116). To guarantee that feedback is suppressed at

lower frequencies, the AFS may place wider notch filters at these lower frequencies (below

700 Hz). Once the desired fixed type has been selected, press the <NEXT PG> button and

the display will read:

• You are now prompted to raise the output gain of the mixer to the level of the performance.

Note that you are raising the mixer gain without an input signal running through the mixer.

Once the desired level has been set and all of the fixed filters have been assigned, the unit

will automatically move you to the page that indicates the fixed filter setup has been com-

pleted. If you have reached the performance level setting and all of the fixed filters have not

been used, you may want to return to the page that selects the number of fixed filters and

re-adjust the number of fixed in order to provide you with additional live filters. Regardless,

once you have completed the setup, the display will read:

• To return to program mode, simply press the <PROGRAM> or <NEXT PG> button. For

more information regarding feedback elimination, please see the AFS parameters of the

Detailed parameters section.

Fixed Filter Setup

Done

AFS

F F F F F F L L L L L L

mixer gain to

desired level.

Slowly Increase the

F F F F F F L L L L L L

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dbx DriveRack Studio Owner's manual

Brand: dbx

Model: DriveRack Studio

Category: Soundbar speakers

Type: Owner's manual

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dbx DriveRack Studio Owner's manual

dbx DriveRack Studio Owner's manual

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